Pune launches ‘transformation cell’ to fix civic issues faster, improve daily services

Pune: The Pune Municipal Corporation on Thursday announced the launch of a new ‘Transformation Cell’ aimed at resolving civic problems more quickly and improving basic services across the city.

Municipal commissioner Naval Kishore Ram and district collector Jitendra Dudi introduced the year-long initiative, which will focus on better coordination between government departments and private agencies. Officials said the goal is to deliver quick and visible improvements rather than waiting years for large infrastructure projects to be completed.

The two senior officials said the plan is to take up small but practical changes that can make a real difference in people’s everyday lives. They pointed to the recent Pune Grand Cycle Tour as an example of how effective coordination between multiple agencies can bring noticeable improvements in a short time.

The Transformation Cell includes members from various departments and agencies. During its first meeting, participants were asked to identify problems caused by poor coordination. Commissioner Ram said several civic projects often get delayed because approvals from other authorities take time.

Speaking about road widening works, Ram said electric poles are sometimes left standing in the middle of expanded roads as power utilities face financial challenges in shifting them. To address this, the PMC will initially pay for relocating such infrastructure. The utility departments will then repay the amount in instalments.

Officials said this approach will also reduce repeated digging of roads.

With the Pune Grand Cycle Tour set to return next year, departments have been directed to plan utility work in advance alongside PMC projects. This is expected to ensure that newly completed roads are not dug up again due to fresh permissions.

According to officials, better planning and coordination will help speed up projects and reduce inconvenience to citizens.

(with inputs from agencies)